More than a year after Spectrum Theatre’s production of The Little Mermaid was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is back on and ready to delight Bega Valley audiences.
The musical tells the story made famous by Disney and includes both familiar songs as well as some new ones, which director Amber Little says are very catchy and will stick in audiences’ heads.
This production by the company’s junior members – Spectrum Little Actors Theatre – has been a long time coming because Spectrum Theatre had no shows in 2020 because of COVID-19 restrictions.
The Little Mermaid was one of many shows across Australia that was postponed last year, but rehearsals on the production began again in 2021, minus some original cast members who were unable to commit to the new dates.
“We’re really excited for this show because it’s been a long time coming,” says Amber. “We’re more than ready for it.”
With 35 young cast members aged from 10 to 20 and many costume changes in the fantastical underwater setting, The Little Mermaid is a large production.
“Even though it’s a junior production, we like to bring it up to the same level as any production,” says Amber. “We try to get as professional as we can.”
She says after a year’s break from theatre, the young performers are “100 per cent” needing to get back to the stage.
“The thing with rehearsals is it’s somewhere kids can forget about all that other stuff,” says Amber.
“For some kids, such as those who aren’t into sports, it’s their space. Theatre is a great place to build up your confidence.
“I’ve seen kids who were as quiet as a mouse at the beginning and now they are finding their voice.
“That’s why you do it for them so you can see those changes and see their confidence build.”
Amber is inviting audiences to “come and be a part of our world”.
“They will get colour, it’s vibrant, it’s Disney and it’s got a happy ending,” she says.
“We’ve got really talented kids who are bringing their characters and this world to life.
“There will be lots of colour and magic from the stage to the audience, and everyone will walk out with a smile on their face.”
The Little Mermaid will be performed at Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre in Bega on 29-30 May, 4-6 June, 11-13 June and 18-19 June.
For more information, and to buy tickets when they become available, visit Spectrum Theatre.